The ‘convoy of incredible people’ saving animals from California’s infernal fires

Los Angeles: Last week, as wildfires raged around the city, a group of dedicated volunteers sprang into action. They were ready to help save pets and livestock left behind as residents evacuated. It was heartwarming to see so many people come together during such a chaotic time.

In the rural areas near the canyons, many animals were in serious danger. Horses, goats, pigs, and even emus were at risk as the flames approached. Some animals were abandoned during the rush to evacuate, while others needed gentle coaxing to escape the chaos.

These volunteers quickly organized through social media and phone calls, working tirelessly through the night. They bravely drove into the fire zones, risking their safety to rescue animals in need. For many, this wasn’t their first time facing such danger.

Wildfires in California have become more intense in recent years, highlighting the urgent need for quick action to protect both people and animals. The work is tough and often heartbreaking, but it shows just how willing people are to help in desperate times.

Brittany “Cole” Bush, who runs a ranch in Ojai Valley, shared how she was flooded with calls after offering her help on social media. She and her team navigated dark, winding roads to evacuate a farm, including a herd of sheep that were scared and unfamiliar with people.

With sirens blaring and police warning of the approaching fire, it was a frantic scene. Bush knew they had to keep the animals calm to get them onto the trailers. Slowly but surely, they managed to lure the animals to safety.

However, not every rescue had a happy ending. In some cases, owners had to leave their horses behind, opting to walk them out instead. One man even shared a video of him guiding his horses through the flames on a motorbike, just before his ranch was destroyed.

Sadly, many animals were left trapped in their corrals. Austin Muhs, a local who has built a network for animal evacuations, recounted a tragic incident where 32 out of 40 horses perished because they couldn’t escape in time.

Despite the heartbreak, there were also stories of hope. One horse, badly burned but alive, was rescued and received the care she needed. The community rallied together, with volunteers like Brady Heiser navigating dangerous roads to save as many animals as possible.

Heiser described the overwhelming support from the community, with trailers ready to go at a moment’s notice. “It was a convoy of incredible people,” he said, as they worked tirelessly to save animals like a stubborn pig named Fancypants.

Fancypants and many other animals are now safe, but the work isn’t over. Rescuers are focused on caring for injured animals and reuniting them with their owners. They’re also preparing for future evacuations as more fires loom on the horizon.

Bush is already thinking ahead, compiling a list of resources for future emergencies. She’s determined to build a stronger network to help animals in need, even as she reflects on the community’s resilience during this crisis.

In the quiet moments, she’s found solace in the good that has come from the chaos. Watching the rescued ducks settle into their new home, she felt a sense of peace. After a long night of rescues, she returned to her ranch under a bright moon, feeling grateful for the lives saved.

“There’s a moment of softness and peace when you know you’ve helped animals escape harm,” she said, reflecting on the emotional journey of the past few days.